Milos: The Hidden Gem of the Greek Isles

When it comes to Greek island vacations, the names Santorini and Mykonos probably come to mind. But, nestled in the heart of the Cyclades is Milos: an island that encapsulates the quintessential beauty of Greece yet remains pretty underrated. This hidden gem, with its lunar landscapes, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear waters, is a destination that shouldn’t be missed! It was one of my absolute favorite stops on our trip to Greece.

Here’s what made it so memorable:

1. Sarakiniko Beach

Sarakiniko Beach, famous for its moon-like landscape, is a marvel of white volcanic rock formations sculpted by wind and waves. The contrast of the stark, lunar terrain against the turquoise waters of the Aegean creates a surreal experience. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a must-visit for those who seek to witness a unique aspect of Earth’s beauty.

We loved spending some time here and took way too many photos. It’s definitely a sight to see!

2. Plaka Village (for the sunset)

High above the island, Plaka Castle offers panoramic views of Milos. The castle, a remnant of the Venetian era, is the perfect place to watch the sunset, with vistas spanning the entire island. The climb to the castle is a journey through the charming streets of Plaka, the island’s capital, filled with whitewashed houses and traditional Greek cafes.

We got a local recommendation to watch the sunset from Utopia cafe instead of the castle. What a treat! If we were to do it again, we would make a reservation or show up a bit earlier to get seats on the edge of the balcony. The view stunning and the vibe is ideal. Plus it was less crowded than Plaka castle, and we got to have a drink!

Protip: One of our favorite stops in Plaka was the Sand Museum. It’s a small, locally-run museum of two rooms with sand from all around the world, including the volcanic sand of Greece. The owner was so kind and welcoming! And it was really fun to look through sand samples from around the world. Highly recommend the stop-in!

3. Secluded beaches

We rented a car and drove around the island, and it really made the trip feel like an adventure. the island is relatively small so you can get around the entire loop, and make a couple of stops in just one day.

One of the coolest places we stopped by was Papafragas beach. You park at the top, find a winding rock ledge that you’ll climb down, and then you’ll be rewarded by this stunning view and crystal clear water. Swim through the sea caves and enjoy the sunshine.

There are also a lot of other unique beaches to check out in Milos!

Accessed by a narrow passage and a ladder, Tsigrado Beach is a hidden gem for those seeking an even more secluded beach experience. The effort to reach this beach is rewarded with soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of being in a private cove. It’s a haven for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Milos.

Another great experience we had on this trip was a private boat tour around the island. This brought us to Kleftiko or “Pirates Bay”. This bay used to be a pirates lair, where they would hide and attack hostile boats. In fact “Kleftiko” itself means “bandit’s lair,” which is how the area got its name.

4. Klima Village & the Catacombs

Klima, a traditional fishing village, is known for its syrmata – colorful boathouses with doors that open directly onto the sea. This quaint village offers a picturesque setting and a peek into the traditional island life. The vibrant colors of the houses against the backdrop of the sea make Klima a delightful spot for relaxation and photography.

While you’re in Klima, take a short hike up a hill and step into history at the Catacombs of Milos. Located near the ancient city of Klima, these underground burial sites date back to the 1st century, offering a glimpse into the early Christian era. The catacombs, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, reflect the rich historical tapestry of Milos. Plus, the view from the top is amazing and the vibe is very serene. It’s located by a farming village. I remember hearing roosters and other animals while looking over a view of the ocean.

5. Luxe Hotels

Milos hailed one of our favorite hotels from our Greece trip. We stayed at White Coast Milos, which was just such an amazing time! From the people to the view to the food. Everything exceeded our expectations. In this hotel, every room has its own pool and sea view. Plus breakfast (and dinner here) was exceptional. For breakfast, you get an entire tower of pastries, plus your meal, plus someone walked around with cold cuts. A dream, and a great way to fuel up before a day of adventuring around Milos.

Conclusion

Milos is a small island where every corner tells a story. From the lunar landscapes of Sarakiniko Beach to the history of the Catacombs and pirate bays, the island beckons travelers to explore its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. This underrated gem of the Aegean is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left its shores. We would highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Greek islands.